The U.S. Has a Really Helpful Student Loan Repayment Program—and No One’s Using It

The menu of repayment options available for student borrowers is a key benefit of taking out federal instead of private student loans, but new data show that many students aren’t taking advantage of the government’s programs.

Income-based repayment plans, praised by student advocates for making loans affordable, even forgive the remaining balance after 10, 20, or 25 years, depending on the program.